An anti-racism gig was cancelled hours before it was due to start at an Ipswich pub yesterday after fears were raised opponents were set to cause disruption.

The ‘Love Music, Hate Racism’ live music charity event at The Steamboat Tavern on the Waterfront was cancelled yesterday lunch-time by organisers.

The gig was organised to celebrate anti-racism, with more than a dozen bands and performers confirmed to play from 3pm-9pm.

But a Suffolk police spokesman said “intelligence” had been received which “suggested there may be disruption” at the event.

The spokesman said staff at the pub took the decision to cancel the gig.

In a statement, the spokesman said: “Police in Ipswich were made aware of an event taking place at The Steamboat Tavern in Ipswich on Sunday September 15 – Love Music, Hate Racism.

“The Ipswich Central Safer Neighbourhood Team sergeant visited the licensee at the premises to make them aware that intelligence had been received which suggested there may be disruption at the event and to ensure appropriate measures had been put in place.

”The licensee had heard similar information and had already made the decision not to hold the event at the premises that day.

“Suffolk police has a duty to inform event organisers and hosts of any potential issues and disruption which could take place.

“Suffolk police has a duty of care to the public and never seek to cancel events but look at ways to ensure they can go ahead with minimal disruption and harm to the public.

“Any related offences that may have been committed will be investigated by police and appropriate action will be taken where necessary.”